My colleague was complaining about having to change her work PC password again – it’s set to make you change it every 90 days or something. It can be a little annoying, thinking of a new variation on the password model you’ve been using since 2005 without repeating yourself, but I understand the need for it. My colleague on the other hand was moaning about “why can’t they let us keep our passwords the same?”
I thought about trying to explain it, but realised it would be too complex, especially if I went into the detail of how I manage all my passwords. It’s frustrating. To some people, I could just say, “I use KeePass, with the data file held in my Dropbox“. They would know what I mean.
KeePass is an app for managing your passwords. I have a version on my Android phone, a version on my laptop, the same X version on Cassie’s Macbook (which is rapidly becoming the main machine in the house), and the Windows Portableapps version running on my work machine. They all access the data file containg all my passwords which is held in my Dropbox. Works great, and it’s easy to bring it up and add stuff.
But there are three levels of explanation required.
- You need to change your passwords. It’s important because…
- There are tools available. They are…
- There are other tools available that make the above tools easier.
It was easier to just say, “Yeah…”
As for Cassie’s Macbook being the primary device, that is a little annoying for Cassie. I wish I could justofy the expense of getting a shiny new Ubuntu-dedicated laptop. A System 76 Gazelle, for example, or for the local touch, a ZaReason Strata Pro, made just up the road in Berkeley.
We especially “need” to get our home data sorted out. A RAID-enabled NAS, I think. That would help Cassie get the filmaking going again as well. Lots of external drives involved in that. Need expert advice…